Launch Your Burnaby Space Research and Technology Venture Today
This page guides you step by step to launching a space research and technology business in Burnaby (NAICS 927110). Get a clear overview of the seven requirements, the permits you’ll need, typical startup costs, and a realistic timeline. It’s practical, actionable guidance designed to keep your plan moving forward. In Burnaby, you’ll find the resources to align with regional guidelines for research institutions and technology enterprises. We'll outline the seven requirements at a high level, then point you to the exact provincial and municipal steps, so you can budget for registration, safety assessments, and potential site approvals.
You’ll learn exactly what the seven requirements cover, where to file applications, and which licenses and inspections apply. We break down startup costs—equipment, office space, insurance, and fees—and map out a practical timeline from idea to operations. Plus, you’ll spot common pitfalls and fast paths to approval.
Burnaby’s growing tech scene, aerospace links, and supportive local programs make it a great base for space research ventures. With easy access to talent and suppliers near Vancouver, you can scale confidently while keeping costs in reach.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a space research and technology business in Burnaby is Business Number (BN) Registration. This BN is issued by the Canada Revenue Agency and serves as your legal ID to work with the government, file taxes, and hire staff. It is non-negotiable—you cannot legally start or run your company, issue invoices, or pay employees without a BN. Getting this set up up front prevents costly delays later.
Beyond the BN, there are essential operational requirements to keep you compliant and safe. You’ll need to address health and safety for your workplace, including WorkSafeBC coverage and registration to protect employees in case of accidents. If your work involves government-related or sensitive programs, you may also need Security Clearance and Screening. For activities tied to the Canadian Space Agency, you’ll need to align with CSA Act compliance. Depending on your projects, you may also require permits or approvals from local or provincial authorities.
For Tax and Business Registration, you’ll want to confirm BC Business Name Registration if you operate as a Sole Proprietorship or Partnership, along with GST/HST Registration if your taxable revenue meets or exceeds the threshold. If you have employees, Payroll Deductions Registration with the Canada Revenue Agency is also on the radar. While the BN covers basic government interactions, these registrations ensure you can legally charge tax, hire staff, and manage payroll without interruption.
Ready to move forward? Start by securing your BN, then complete your BC Business Name registration if needed, and set up GST/HST and payroll registrations as appropriate. Check WorkSafeBC requirements and any security or CSA-related obligations that apply to your work. With a clear, simple plan and small steps, you’ll build a compliant foundation for your Burnaby space research venture and feel confident about the path ahead.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a space research and technology in Burnaby:
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Business Number (BN) Registration RequiredA 9-digit Business Number is required for most businesses operating in Canada. It is used to interact with the Canada Revenue Agency and other federal programs. Required for GST/HST, payroll, corporation income tax, and import/export accounts. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) at canada.ca. Takes 15-30 minutes. As of November 3, 2025, online registration is MANDATORY for new BNs - phone registration no longer available. You'll need: business name, address, owner SIN, business type, and start date. BN (9-digit number) issued INSTANTLY online. Available 21 hours/day, 7 days/week (closed 3-6am ET for maintenance).
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BC Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership) RequiredRegistration of sole proprietorship or partnership business names with BC Registries Register sole proprietorship or partnership at bcregistry.gov.bc.ca. Name reservation: $30 (standard) or $100 (priority 1-2 days). Registration fee: $40. Total: ~$70. Name reserved for 56 days after approval. Registration is continuous (no renewal required). No name protection for sole proprietorships. Personal names operating under own name do not require registration. Contact BC Registries: 1-877-526-1526.
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Security Clearance and Screening ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Government personnel in security-sensitive positions must undergo security clearance, background checks, and maintain confidentiality protocols. Federal security clearance and screening. CSIS background checks. Reliability status, Secret, Top Secret levels. Contact Treasury Board: 1-877-636-0656.
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Canadian Space Agency Act Compliance ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Space research and technology organizations must comply with CSA regulations, international space treaties, and obtain appropriate authorizations. Canadian Space Agency Act compliance. Remote sensing licensing. Space activities authorization. Contact CSA: 450-926-4800.
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GST/HST Registration ConditionalRequired if annual taxable revenue exceeds $30,000 (small supplier threshold). Taxi/ride-share drivers must register regardless of revenue. Businesses with gross revenues over $30,000 in any single quarter or over four consecutive quarters must register for, collect, and remit GST/HST. Small suppliers (under $30,000) may register voluntarily. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when your revenue exceeds $30,000 in any 4 consecutive quarters (small supplier threshold). Takes 15-30 minutes. You MUST register within 29 days of exceeding threshold and start charging GST/HST immediately on the sale that made you exceed it. Need your BN (or get one simultaneously). As of Nov 3, 2025, online registration is mandatory. Voluntary registration available anytime for input tax credits.
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Payroll Deductions Registration ConditionalRequired if you pay salaries, wages, or other remuneration to employees. Must register before first pay period. Required if you have employees. You must withhold Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Employment Insurance (EI), and income tax from employee wages and remit to CRA. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when you hire your first employee. Takes 15-20 minutes. You'll need your Business Number (BN) or can get one simultaneously. Payroll account (RP) added to your BN instantly. Register BEFORE your first pay date. Required to deduct CPP, EI, and income tax from employee wages. For 2025: CPP rate 5.95%, EI employee rate $1.66/$100 insurable earnings.
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WorkSafeBC Coverage and Registration ConditionalRequired if you have workers in BC. Workers compensation insurance coverage through WorkSafeBC for employers in British Columbia WorkSafeBC coverage required for most BC employers. Average base premium rate: 1.55% of assessable payroll ($1.55 per $100). Register online at worksafebc.com. Apply 30 days before starting business or hiring workers. Processing: ~10 business days. Premium rates vary by industry classification (514 classification units). COR certified employers eligible for 10% rebate. Contact: 604-276-3100 or 1-888-967-5377.
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